Windows 8.1 Update 1 Now Available for Download

Update 1 has reached the web and can now be downloaded by any Windows 8.1 user

Windows 8.1 Update 1 was initially expected to be launched in early April, but since Microsoft has already completed development of the update, it can now be downloaded freely by everyone running a Windows 8.1 installation.

Basically, the update, which appears to come in official form, requires a fully up-to-date Windows 8.1 version, so make sure you have already deployed all previous update rollups and patches released by Microsoft on Patch Tuesdays.

Windows 8.1 Update 1 was designed to appeal to desktop computer users, as Microsoft has acknowledged that its platform has some issues when being installed on such devices. The Modern UI is thus receiving several improvements in order to be easier to use with the traditional mouse and keyboard combo, while the software giant is also making an important step towards a mix of Metro and the desktop expected to be concluded in Windows 9.

Windows 8.1 Update 1 makes it possible to pin Metro apps to the taskbar and launch them straight from the desktop. The apps are now capable of running in their own windows, but sources close to the matter say that Microsoft is working on even more improvements that would be included in Windows 9.

Basically, Redmond is trying to merge the two working environments and allow users to launch Metro apps right on the desktop, which would basically mean that all these apps would become more or less desktop gadgets that would clearly come in handy to many more consumers.

Windows 8.1 Update 1 was initially expected to debut in early April for MSDN subscribers, as Microsoft kicks off the BUILD developer conference on April 2. At the same time, people close to the development process said that consumers were expected to get it on April 8, the same day when the software giant is planning to roll out Patch Tuesday updates for several products across its range.

At this point, Microsoft is yet to publicly share more details about Windows 8.1 Update 1 and although many users rushed to download the leaked builds, you’re still recommended to wait until the software giant makes them available for everyone.

If you do decide to deploy the leaked installers, make sure you are backing up your existing Windows 8.1 installation, just to be on the safe side in case something goes wrong when trying to deploy the first major update for the modern operating system.